There are a huge number of different techniques that are used to create the powerful images that we ultimately remember from our favorite films. While watching those films, it can be a lot of fun to look for the different camera techniques that are used to create the various emotions and sensations that we have come to expect when viewing a piece of film that is special to us. One type of shot that you should be on the lookout for is full shots.

Full Shot Defined

The best definition of a full shot comes from NFI.edu:

A full shot, wide shot, or long shot captures one or more characters or subjects from top to bottom to focus on the character’s appearance or movement. Examples include characters riding horses or walking down the street. Full shots can communicate the appearance, movement, mannerisms, traits, or actions of characters before focusing on their reaction or feelings.

This is an excellent tactic to use when trying to capture the full sense of what the scene is trying to capture. There are certain scenes that are best captured by showing the entire frame, and it is not always possible to get all of that out of other camera angles. Bear this in mind when exploring the various ways that a full shot might prove useful in meeting your end goals.

What is a Full Shot Used For?

There are quite a few different uses for a full shot in film. You may see it put into place for the following reasons:

• Physical Comedy – There are some physical comedy bits that can only truly be captured by using a full shot. The audience needs to see the full range of motion that the actor is putting out there, and they can only do so when they can see the scene fully. Thus, a full shot can be the way to go for many different bits of physical comedy.
• Provide Context to Your Story – Adding a little context to your story by using a full shot is an excellent way to ensure that you never miss the opportunity to provide all of the information that your audience needs to know about the story they are viewing.
• Add Thrills to Action Scenes – One of the most common types of scenes that one might see in a film is action scenes. In these moments, it is nice to have full shots to show everything that is going on at that time. It adds context and makes the action that much more exciting.

Examples of a Full Shot

Believe it or not, there is a good chance that you have already seen full shots used in various films that you have enjoyed over the years. A good example of the kind of scene that may include a full shot is a scene with an actor riding on a horse or walking down a street. Full shots are used in these instances to show the environment that surrounds the actor to give the audience a better idea about what they are going through. It is the kind of thing that makes it possible to explore the dynamics that are at play and give the audience the chance to engage with what they are seeing on screen.

Learn More About Full Shots at Be On Air

The comprehensive courses at Be On Air can provide you with the insights you require regarding how full shots are filmed and how to incorporate them into your own masterpieces. If you are a creative person and are interested in this kind of thing, then you should contact us today about how to enroll in classes.